ABSTRACT
Abstract A full-scale model test has been carried out in the laboratory to investigate the structural behaviour of a concrete flat arch bridge. It was discovered that its structural strength comes mainly from beam action before cracking, then comes from arching action between abutments after cracking [1-3]. The bridge failed due to the disappearance of the arching action in the structure as a result of large structural deflection. Simplified calculation methods have been developed to predict its precracking structural strength, and its ultimate structural strength. The predicted results are in good agreement with the finite element analysis results and the model test results. Keywords: Flat arch bridge.
